A sling is a device used to support and keep still (immobilize) an injured part of the body.

Slings can be used for many different injuries, but are most often used when you have a broken (fractured) or dislocated arm or shoulder.

See also:

• Dislocations
• Fractures

Sling - instructions

If an injury needs a splint, apply the splint first, and then apply the sling.

Always check the person's skin color and pulse (circulation) after the injured body part has been immobilized. If the area becomes cool, turns pale or blue, or if the patient develops numbness or tingling, loosen the splint and bandage.

Images

Shoulder sling

Triangular shoulder sling

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How to make a sling Symptoms

Review Date: 01/13/2010
Reviewed By: Jacob L. Heller, MD, MHA, Emergency Medicine, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)